American Spaniel Club (ASC)

The American Spaniel Club (ASC), established in 1881, stands as a cornerstone organization for spaniel enthusiasts in North America. As the official parent club for the Cocker Spaniel, the ASC serves as the primary guardian of the breed, dedicated to its preservation and well-being. While deeply rooted in the history of the Cocker Spaniel, the club’s scope extends to support all flushing spaniel breeds, fostering a community centered on education, cooperation, and training.

Core Mission and Advocacy

The mission of the ASC is to promote the health and welfare of Cocker Spaniels and all flushing spaniels. This commitment is realized through several key initiatives:

• Health and Research: Through its non-profit foundation, the ASC actively supports vital health research and rescue efforts. The club also partners with the OFA CHIC program to provide health registries, rebates, and rewards to improve the long-term health of the breed.
• Legislative Advocacy: The club employs a legislative liaison to keep members and the public informed on animal welfare issues, providing the necessary tools to influence policies that impact spaniel breeds.
• Governance: Members play a direct role in the club’s operations, including determining the official breed standard and establishing a rigorous code of ethics.

Events and Activities

The ASC is highly active in the competitive dog show circuit, hosting two major annual events that serve as highlights for the spaniel community:

• The Cocker Spaniel National Specialty: A premier event dedicated exclusively to the Cocker Spaniel, featuring specialized judging and competition.
• The Flushing Spaniel Show: An inclusive event that showcases the diversity and excellence of all flushing spaniel breeds.

Membership and Participation

The ASC encourages active participation from its members, who are involved in everything from voting on judges for national shows to shaping the club's internal policies. By maintaining a transparent nomination and voting process, the club ensures that its members remain the driving force behind its standards and activities. The American Spaniel Club continues to be a vital resource for breeders, owners, and enthusiasts, providing a structured environment for the advancement of spaniel breeds through professional standards and community engagement.